The Reds’ hopes of a Wembley final were dashed on Tuesday night when Chelsea sneaked through 2-1 on aggregate.

A 1-0 defeat after extra-time at Stamford Bridge ended Liverpool’s 10-game unbeaten run but Rodgers is convinced there will be no hangover from that setback.

The manager says the manner in which the Reds performed against the Premier League leaders has only strengthened his belief that they are capable of qualifying for the Champions League and winning a trophy this term.

They will be boosted by the return of Sturridge, who is set to make his comeback from injury after five months out in Saturday’s Premier League clash with West Ham at Anfield.

Liverpool find themselves five points adrift of the top four and still in contention for FA Cup and Europa League glory.

WATCH: James Pearce's verdict on the League Cup defeat

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“It won’t derail anything,” Rodgers said.

“I’ve got nothing but admiration for the players in terms of their approach to the two games. I think we came out of it with great credit.

“We went into the semi-final of a cup and didn’t show any nerves or signs of pressure. We played with wonderful expression in our game, while being defensively very strong.

“Of course we’re disappointed because we saw it as an opportunity to get to Wembley with how well we’ve been playing.

“But what comes out of the two games was a real positive feeling. In terms of performances over the two legs, we were the better team.

“It was clear to see that we weren’t efficient in the final third of the field and that was what ultimately cost us over the tie. We could have put it to bed with the chances we had in the first game.

“A specialist in those positions could have made the difference for us over the two legs but the players were outstanding and we were unfortunate not to have gone through.

“Certainly, it won’t leave any overriding disappointment. I expect us to kick on. It just gives us extra motivation to keep performing to this level and hopefully finish the season successfully.

“Our objectives are still very clear. To finish in the top four and to win a trophy – we won’t hide away from that.

“That’s what we want to achieve between now and May. We’re playing well now and with players returning from injury that gives us extra quality.”